Metal Maniac

This has been one of the best weeks when it comes to metal releases, having works by many great bands come to light. I don’t think there’s the necessity to mention them all; as I’m sure you are following the news as well. But I’m amazed to see that truly important and gifted Ukrainian bands have released, in my humble opinion, masterpieces in a matter of days. And indeed this country has to offer us many intriguing and special bands, such as Kroda.

Kroda was founded in Dnipropetrovsk, being located in Lviv now, in the year 2003, to create hymns of HelCarpathian Black Metal, focused their lyrics in heathenism, history and patriotism. Their discography is composed of five highly acclaimed full-length albums, not counting “GinnungaGap GinnungaGaldr GinnungaKaos” yet, which is obviously their sixth, all praised by their grandeur, talent and vision. As always, we keep on expecting what will happen with the next album, if it will be up to the previous ones standards… and, my friends, I am happy to say that, in my modest view, “GinnungaGap GinnungaGaldr GinnungaKaos” is, one more time, a refined and classic work by Kroda.

As I type this article, I listen to it one more time and this release is pure brilliance filled with beautiful aggression as well as an elegant harmony of folk and extreme metal elements crafted with absolute inspiration and artistic integrity. You can sense that the music is honest, is proud, oozing emotion and ardor. And, as I always states, I find it much better to hear the bands singing in their native language, since I feel that it gives the music something special, but, of course, this is just a personal opinion. I just believe that it sounds more powerful, more passionate. And Ukrainian does sound very well for Extreme Metal. Of course the vocals help a lot, as they’re anguished, infuriated and exuberant in fervor.

“GinnungaGap GinnungaGaldr GinnungaKaos” is epic, folk, haunting, atmospheric and fierce at the same time, vigorous, energetic as well as, at times, gentle and dazzling. It is bestial and gallant, furious and soothing, clearly showing how talented Kroda is in blending different moods and landscapes in a masterful way. When I mentioned the folk elements, I’m talking about the dark and sorrowful side of folk music, while the guitars also sound “obscure”, with their outstanding harmonies and tremolo. One more time, the folk instruments enrich so much the experience, never being overused, while the “metal” side is fast, hostile and imposing. I am truly impressed how Kroda managed to maintain their quality throughout the years and never being a simple carbon copy of themselves, but rather, looking for new perspectives and reaching other levels. “GinnungaGap GinnungaGaldr GinnungaKaos” is passion, beauty, pride, enlaced in the uttermost brilliant vision of extreme metal art.

When it comes to the album production, in my humble opinion, this is another top-notch work in “GinnungaGap GinnungaGaldr GinnungaKaos”, with everything being completely audible, well-balanced and pleasing. My dear friends, you can listen to this album at the band’s official Bandcamp page and that’s what I ask of you. And if you like what you heard, I have another little request, if possible… please, find yourself a way to support/ promote this magnificent band.

Until next time.

Grade: 9,8/10

Band: Kroda

Album: GinnungaGap GinnungaGaldr GinnungaKaos (2015)

Label: Purity Through Fire

Tracklist:

1. На крилах шторму
2. Штрига повні
3. Навій схрон
4. Чорні хребти Карпат
5. Прірва себе
6. Туманом снігової імли
7. Здохніть разом із богом своїм!
8. Нічного неба очі

Kroda is:

Eisenslav – Vocals, Bass, Folk Instruments, Lyrics

One of Thorns – Bass

Khladogard – Guitars

Clin – Keyboards

Official Bandcamp: https://kroda.bandcamp.com/

Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/krodaua

Purity Through Fire: http://www.purity-through-fire.com/

All photos belong to their rightful owners.